Last night, we all hit the wall. Dead tired. Just absolutely EXHAUSTED. I think its a mixture of being tired physically, tired from the drain of living in another country, and tired from how long its been since we've been home. Janice is missing her routine and I think all of us are missing the comforts of home and our friends. As much fun as we are having, we are starting to really look forward to being home. Before we even left on this trip, my love for our home Sacramento grew as I put together activity ideas for our exchange partners. We really do have a wonderful city, with so many nearby activities. ... I'm missing going to work with my awesome team, ... I miss hanging with the dudes, ... playing games on the computer, ... and little things like watching TV in English! hehe...

The plan today was to go to a nearby chateau or visit some local mines, but with all of us feeling tired, we've decided to just veg and recharge our batteries

. That is one of the wonderful luxuries of this trip. Because of the fact that we are gone for so long, we have the freedom to just relax and play catch up as needed. I think its really helped us be more fully present during our various excursions without feeling like we are go-go-going. Its not fun to rush from one event or tourist sight to the next just to see it, ya know?

My only outings today were two quick bike rides around town in search of some more grub (ooh, yum, found more freshly made rillettes and rilletes of duck!). The rest of the day I was either napping or planning the rest of our trip. I think all of the major outings for the rest of the trip are pretty much set after the work I've done today. The only thing that remains is to work out what we want to do in Paris ... but as they say, "Paris can wait..."

At 4pm, the kids are still in their PJ's. Janice accepts an invite with the kids to play with the across-the-street-neighbor's 4yr old son ... I chill at the house and nap ... and then we all head back over across the street from 7pm - 9:30pm for more relaxing and talking with the neighbors.

The neighbors are very kind and treat us to some fresh baked pastries and rum! He is the city 'notary', a combination of tax man / attorney / recorders office sort of position. She stays at home with the rascally (but cute) 4yr old and second newbown son. They are nearly our exact same age. Very nice couple.

Back home now for resting and sleeping. A neighborhood dog is barking very loudly tonight, the first time we've heard it on the trip. Its 10:15pm as I write this. Hopefully it quiets down soon.

Comments

We Miss You, Too!!! Hi Asher, Janice, Sam and Ella,
Although we get to travel along with you via the great blog stories...it's not the same as seeing ya'll face to face! I read this blog after the next one where you explored the caves and enjoyed the medieval fair...so I guess the day of rest recouped your energy. It's wonderful that you're enjoying the sights, people, experiences and each other so very much. Oh, I can't forget the food, Asher!!
You are all loved and missed. Nana/Mom